Matthew Szymkowicz

Temple Emanuel

Through family friends, Matt heard about a Christmas Give-Away sponsored by St. Elizabeth, Mother of John the Baptist Catholic Church in North St. Louis. Son of Patty and Mike Szymkowicz of Wentzville, Matt said he was shocked to learn that there are children in St. Louis that do not receive any holiday presents. And, that their parents cannot afford to buy them all the clothing and food they need.

Matt felt he had to do something about their situation. For about six weeks he collected clothing, toys, and household items from his family, neighbors and members of Temple Emanuel. In the end, Matt amassed two truckloads of donations, as well as $200 in contributions, for his mitzvah project.

A student at Wentzville South Middle School, Matt also worked during the Give-Away in the clothing room. He sorted clothing and found coats and sweaters for people who were cold standing in line.

“He was really glad he did the project,” said Matt’s mother. “He understood how important the Give-Away was to this community. When we arrived at the church the day Matt volunteered, he was stunned that there were hundreds of people standing in a line that went around the block. They waited several hours in 20 degree weather just to get a box of food and a piece of clothing!” 

Matt received a note of thanks from Father Jeff Vomund, Pastor of the Church, an excerpt of which follows.

“Dear Matt,

You made our Give-Away your Bar Mitzvah service project and did a clothing and toy drive at your Temple and in your neighborhood. I wanted you to know that your generosity made a difference! Because of your service and leadership, many of our 4,000 clients received more of a Christmas blessing – and more of your friends and community received the blessing of being able to give. Thanks for making it happen! Know of my personal gratitude and prayers as well as those of our volunteers and clients.”

St. Elizabeth, Mother of John the Baptist Catholic Church is in one of the poorest areas in the St. Louis area. The church’s Give-Away started 20 years ago and takes place the week before Christmas. Each family that attends receives a box of food, one article of clothing and one toy for each child.